After preservation, where should you store your gown?

There are several key factors that will have an effect on the success of the entire preservation process. Where and how you keep your wedding gown are both very important when it comes to storing your wedding gown. Here are a few tips:

·        Flat surface- It is very important to store your wedding gown in its preservation box on a flat surface with the bodice of the gown facing upwards. If you store the box on its end, it may cause the wedding gown to shift creating wrinkles and distortion of the shape of the dress. It is also important to note that a wedding gown should not be left hanging for long periods of time. This can cause the fabric of the dress to lose its shape and form. The hanger can also leave unwanted marks and stains.

·        Dark place- This is also very important because if fabrics are left out and exposed to sunlight and other forms of ultraviolet rays, they will tend to fade.

·        Constant temperatures and humidity- If your wedding gown is stored in a location such as your attic, garage, cellar, or basement it will more than likely encounter extreme changes in both temperature and humidity. This can cause your wedding gown to discolor and the fibers of the fabric to deteriorate. Cold, damp environment such as your basement or can promote mold and mildew growth. This can also attract insects to your wedding gown. If the gown is stored in a dry place, but has extremely high temperatures, the fabric might become brittle and fray.

·        Not in plastic- This is another important tip. Do not store your wedding gown in either a plastic box or bag. This type of material traps moisture which will lead to mildew and the attraction of insects.

It is best to store your boxed wedding gown in a cabinet or closet in the middle section of your home. It should also be in a place that it will be reasonable undisturbed. A guest bedroom or spare closet is an ideal location for storing. Again, never store your wedding gown in the attic or basement!